Alberta Blocker Joining REDS

(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS women’s volleyball team is naming 5’11” middle blocker Calei Penner to their recruiting class of 2025.

The 17-year-old Penner, completing her Grade 12 year at F.G. Miller High School in her hometown of Elk Point, Alberta, has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the REDS ahead of the 2025-2026 Atlantic University Sport season.

“Calei will add another level of competitiveness to our gym, pushing both herself and her teammates,” said REDS’ head coach Lauren Hale-Miller. “She’s eager to develop and will work to adapt to the speed of university volleyball while continuing to refine her skills. With her mindset and work ethic, we’re excited to see her progress within our program.”

Penner is a veteran member of northeastern Alberta’s Rhinos Volleyball Club, playing with their U17 and U18 teams.

She captained the F.G. Miller team in 2024, helping the school win a third consecutive St. Paul Athletic Association championship.

Penner has been part of Rhinos teams that have captured medals at provincial and national championship tournaments and in 2024 she was named the Rhinos U18 team’s Most Valuable Player.

“The REDS volleyball program and the athletics program as a whole are growing, so I know it’s a great opportunity,” said Penner. “I’ve already felt that I’ll be in a supportive environment with lots of room to grown and learn.”

She says her short-term goals include building speed and endurance and adjusting to the faster paced university game. Longer-term, she’d like to help the REDS qualify for the U SPORTS Championship.

“Calei’s presence at the net stood out, as she brings both physicality and competitiveness to her game,” said Coach Hale-Miller. “She competes with intensity and isn’t afraid to challenge opponents. What makes her an exciting addition to our program is her willingness to learn and grow, showing a strong desire to keep improving.”

“I have a strong work ethic and am very competitive,” said Penner.

Penner will study Psychology while attending UNB.

STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics

PHOTO: Submitted